As the leaves turn to shades of amber and gold, a delightful aroma wafts through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to cozy autumn afternoons. I can’t help but feel a rush of excitement as I prepare my favorite fall indulgence: Soft Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies. These fluffy treats are not only a blissful combination of pumpkin and maple, but they also come together in no time, making them perfect for both intimate gatherings and solo afternoon treats. Plus, with their sweet icing and crunchy pecan topping, they’re certain to become a staple in your fall baking routine. Curious to see how your own kitchen can overflow with this comforting scent? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why are these cookies a fall essential?
Soft and Fluffy: These cookies boast a heavenly texture that melts in your mouth, making them a comforting delight for chilly days.
Autumn Vibes: The combination of pumpkin, maple, and warm spices creates the perfect flavor profile to celebrate the season.
Quick to Make: With straightforward steps, you’ll whip up a batch in no time, letting you savor the joys of fall with minimal fuss—perfect alongside a cup of chai or hot cider.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether for a cozy family gathering or a snack during your Zoom calls, these cookies are sure to impress.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap pecans with walnuts or even try out different spices—you have the flexibility to make them your own.
Ready to explore more delicious fall treats? Check out our Chewy Chocolate Chip cookies for another delightful baking adventure!
Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and binds ingredients; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
- Baking Powder – A leavening agent that helps the cookies rise; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
- Ground Cloves – Adds warmth and spice; substitute with ground nutmeg for a different flavor profile.
- Ground Cinnamon – Enhances the cookie’s sweetness and adds a fragrant fall-inspired flavor; no substitutions needed.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors; essential for overall taste.
- Chopped Pecans – Adds a delightful crunch and flavor; can be replaced with walnuts or omitted for nut-free alternatives.
- Unsalted Butter – Ensures richness and moisture; can be replaced with vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
- White Sugar – Adds sweetness and aids in browning; substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
- Dark Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a rich flavor; light brown sugar can be substituted, but the flavor will be less robust.
- Large Egg – Binds ingredients and helps with structure; use a flax egg for a vegan alternative.
- Maple Syrup – Provides natural sweetness and a distinct maple flavor; honey can be used as a substitute.
- Pumpkin Puree – Gives moisture and a rich pumpkin flavor; ensure it is well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
For the Icing
- Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and a soft texture for the icing; cornstarch can be used to thicken icing if needed.
- Maple Syrup – Used in the icing to enhance the maple flavor; can combine well with other sweeteners if desired.
These Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies are destined to fill your kitchen and heart with warmth this fall!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This ensures a consistent baking temperature for your Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies. While the oven is warming up, prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper, making clean-up a breeze.
Step 2: Prepare the Butter
Take your unsalted butter out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes. It should feel soft but not melted. Properly softened butter is key for achieving that light and fluffy texture in your cookies, allowing for perfect creaming with the sugars.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and salt. This step allows the leavening agent to distribute evenly throughout the flour, ensuring your Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies rise beautifully. Set this mixture aside as you move on to the next step.
Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In another bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the softened butter with white sugar and dark brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. The sugars will help aerate the butter, creating a luscious base for your cookies.
Step 5: Add Wet Ingredients
Gently blot the pumpkin puree with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, then add it to the creamed mixture along with the egg and maple syrup. Mix well until fully incorporated. This step infuses your dough with that rich pumpkin flavor, setting the stage for a cozy fall treat.
Step 6: Incorporate Dry Mixture
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will help keep your Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies soft and tender. A few flour streaks are okay; it’s more important to achieve a homogeneous batter.
Step 7: Fold in Pecans and Shape Dough
Gently fold in half of the chopped pecans into the cookie dough. Using a cookie scoop or two tablespoons, portion out the dough into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart. This spacing allows the cookies to spread evenly without touching.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 13-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will continue to set as they cool. Once ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool on wire racks.
Step 9: Prepare the Maple Icing
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves until smooth. This icing adds a sweet finish to your cookies. Drizzle the icing over the cooled Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies, and sprinkle the remaining pecans on top for an appealing presentation.
What to Serve with Soft Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies
Prepare to savor the taste of fall as you create the perfect meal to complement these delightful cookies.
- Spiced Chai Tea: This warm and aromatic drink pairs beautifully, enhancing the spices in the cookies while providing a cozy beverage to sip alongside.
- Creamy Pumpkin Soup: A silky soup brings a luscious pumpkin flavor that echoes your cookies, creating a harmonious fall dining experience.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crispy exterior and earthy flavor balance the sweetness of the cookies, introducing a delightful contrast in textures.
- Apple Cider: Serve this sweet and tangy beverage chilled or warm; it adds a refreshing touch that blends perfectly with the cookie’s maple notes.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy ice cream drizzled with warm maple syrup serves as a deliciously indulgent accompaniment, creating mouthwatering flavor combinations.
- Nutty Granola: A side bowl of nutty granola can provide a crunchy contrast, offering a delightful crunch that complements the softness of the cookies without overpowering them.
- Autumn Fruit Salad: Fresh pears, apples, and pomegranates come together to deliver a sweet-tart flavor that contrasts nicely with the rich sweetness of the cookies.
- Maple Pecan Coffee: Brewed with maple syrup and toasted pecans, this coffee mirrors the cookies, creating a unified theme throughout your meal—a perfect touch for a cozy morning.
Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookie Variations
Feel free to play around with these delightful swaps and twists to tailor the recipe to your taste buds and dietary needs!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with vegan butter or coconut oil for a richer, dairy-free option that keeps the cookies moist.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour, ensuring your cookies are accessible to everyone without losing their soft texture.
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Nut-Free: Omit chopped pecans entirely or replace them with sunflower seeds to maintain that delightful crunch without the nuts.
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Sweet & Decadent: Add in chopped white chocolate or butterscotch chips to elevate the cookie’s sweetness and create a gooey, melty surprise in each bite.
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Fruity Twist: Incorporate dried cranberries or raisins for a chewiness that balances beautifully with the spices, adding a delightful fruity layer to your cookies.
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Spice it Up: Adjust the spices according to your preference: swap cloves with ginger for a warmer flavor or increase the cinnamon for an extra aromatic kick.
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More Crunch: For an added texture, toss in crushed up graham crackers or oats along with the pecans; this will give your cookies a hearty bite that feels substantial and satisfying.
To discover other delicious recipes and playful variations, try our delightful Chewy Chocolate Chip cookies, or embrace your autumn baking with an assortment of flavors!
Expert Tips for Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies
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Butter Temperature Matters: Ensure your butter is at room temperature; too cold will prevent proper creaming, while too warm could lead to flat cookies.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until combined after adding flour. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies.
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Moisture Control: Blot your pumpkin puree to reduce excess moisture; too much moisture can make your cookies cakey instead of soft and fluffy.
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Perfect Icing Consistency: Adjust the icing thickness by adding more powdered sugar for a thicker icing or a splash of milk for a thinner drizzle.
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Cooling Time: Let the cookies cool completely on wire racks before icing; this ensures the icing sets perfectly and won’t melt into the cookies.
Make Ahead Options
These Soft Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance by covering it tightly and refrigerating. Alternatively, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months; simply scoop the dough balls onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw—just add an extra minute or two to the baking time. To maintain their incredible softness, store the baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have delicious cookies ready with minimal effort whenever the mood strikes!
How to Store and Freeze Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies
Airtight Container: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their soft texture and freshness.
Refrigeration: If you’d like them to last a bit longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks—just ensure they’re well-wrapped to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Thawing: To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours, or warm them briefly in the microwave for a cozy taste of fall.
Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! Choose pumpkin puree that’s well-drained and has a smooth texture without any dark spots or excess moisture. Canned pumpkin is often a reliable option, but if you prefer homemade, ensure your pumpkin is fully cooked and mashed until silky.
How should I store Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies?
To keep these soft cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you’re looking for a longer shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks—just be sure they’re well-wrapped to prevent them from drying out.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze your Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be safely frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours or warm them up in the microwave for a quick treat.
What if my cookie dough is too dry or too wet?
Very! If the dough seems too dry and crumbly, try adding a teaspoon of milk or a splash of maple syrup to reach the desired consistency. Conversely, if the dough is too wet, you can mix in a tablespoon of flour at a time until it firms up, ensuring you mix just until combined for that luscious, soft cookie texture.
Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
If you or your loved ones have nut allergies, you can easily omit the pecans from the recipe. Feel free to replace them with seeds, like pumpkin or sunflower seeds, which will still add that delightful crunch without any allergenic concerns.
Can I make these cookies vegan or gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make the Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies vegan, substitute the large egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use vegan butter. For a gluten-free version, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well. Enjoy baking in your personalized way!
Soft Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies for a Cozy Fall Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Let the unsalted butter sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes.
- Whisk together the flour, baking powder, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl.
- Cream the softened butter with white sugar and dark brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the pumpkin puree, egg, and maple syrup to the creamed mixture and mix well.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in half of the chopped pecans, then portion the dough onto prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 13-15 minutes until edges are lightly golden, then let cool on wire racks.
- Whisk together icing ingredients and drizzle over cooled cookies, topping with remaining pecans.
